Ballon d'Or triumph over Vinicius Jr 'like bottle of oxygen' for Rodri as he reveals ACL injury comeback target before end of this season

Rodri is currently sidelined with an ACL injury and has had to watch on as City have embarked on their worst-ever run under Pep Guardiola, failing to win any of their last six games. However, the Spain international is hoping to make a stunning comeback before the end of the season, and insists his Ballon d'Or win has only served to inspire him.

Rodri beat Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior to the most prestigious individual award in football, leading to a backlash from fans and team-mates of the Brazilian. Nevertheless, the defensive midfielder insists that his prize is a "bottle of oxygen" as he bids to find his way back onto the pitch.

Rodri told FourFourTwo: "Everything seems to be going well with my rehab. It’s been good to spend time with my family here. The energy they give me is important, and a long time had passed since I was back at home. Because of my injury, the award has been like a bottle of oxygen for me."

Regarding his return, he added: "I want to come back this season, that would be important for me. I don’t know if I can, but I’d like to be involved for a month or two and finish the season."

City are next in action against Liverpool in what could prove to be a decisive game for their title ambitions. A defeat would see the Reds move 11 points clear of the champions at the top.